Great Inaugural Addresses

From the Editor

Some of the most powerful political statements in American history appear in the inaugural addresses of our presidents. In crises and in moments of social and cultural change, in wartime and peace, the president we have elected speaks directly to us of his vision and his policies. In this issue of History Now, we look at five remarkable inaugural addresses that reflect critical moments in our national history, each delivered by men willing to accept the heavy burdens of leadership.